Book of 1st Thessalonians

These messages provide an overview of the apostle Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians. This is one of the most affectionate and encouraging letters written by Paul, and it provides insight into the understanding of the early church regarding biblical eschatology or last things. It contains one of the key Scriptural teachings on the rapture of the Church that will occur before the beginning of the Tribulation period. [121 slides, 8 hours 44 minutes]

Introduction to 1 ThessaloniansThis study provides the introduction to Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians. It gives an overview of the history of this time period, the background of the city of Thessalonica, and a discussion of how the gospel first reached these beloved believers. [8 slides, 54 minutes]

Being Thankful for Growth in the Gospel(1 Thessalonians 1:1-5) This study covers Paul's opening address to the Thessalonians as he expresses his gratefulness for their progress in the gospel. [11 slides, 41 minutes]

A Minister's Standard of Conduct(1 Thessalonians 2:1-13) This study explores Paul's defense of his ministry in Thessalonica and validates that his message consists of absolute truth from God Himself. [14 slides, 57 minutes]

A Minister's Heart for His People (Part 1)(1 Thessalonians 2:14-20) This study examines Paul's heartfelt affection for those to whom he has ministered. He rejoices for their loyalty to the faith while enduring suffering. [12 slides, 50 minutes]

A Minister's Heart for His People (Part 2)(1 Thessalonians 3:1-13) This study continues to examine Paul's heartfelt affection for those to whom he has ministered. When he could no longer stand it, he sent Timothy to report on the faith of the Thessalonian believers. He rejoiced over the good news of their faithfulness. [11 slides, 48 minutes]

Grow in Holiness as God Has Planned(1 Thessalonians 4:1-12) In this section Paul exhorts the Thessalonian believers to increasing holiness of life. He specifically addresses the issues of sexual immorality, brotherly kindness, and inattention to daily work as he spurs them on to continue growing into full maturity in Christ. [14 slides, 55 minutes]

The Resurrection of Church-age Believers(1 Thessalonians 4:13-18) In this passage Paul explains the doctrine of the resurrection of Church-age believers, both living and dead. We see the resurrection Paul discusses as the fulfillment of Jesus' promise in John 14:3. Paul's intention is that correct doctrine will produce comfort and encouragement in the lives of the Thessalonians. [14 slides, 57 minutes]

The Reason for the Rapture(1 Thessalonians 5:1-11) Paul reminds the Thessalonians of what comes after the resurrection of Church-age believers. Since believers no longer belong to the realm of darkness, and since the Lord Jesus Christ already took God's wrath on our behalf, believers are not destined to experience the Day of the Lord. [14 slides, 57 minutes]

What Distinguishes Believers from Those in Darkness?(1 Thessalonians 5:12-28) In light of the truth that believers belong to the realm of light, how should they behave? In this passage Paul outlines several imperatives for believers, but more importantly he tells believers what will make it possible for them to live like children of the light! [12 slides, 55 minutes]